The light projection show at Edinburgh Castle will return this year with stories of the ice and fire which has shaped Scotland and Edinburgh’s skyline.
The show Castle of Light: Fire and Ice begins on 21 November and runs until 4 January with an after dark experience for all ages culminating with a visit to the Ice Queen in the Great Hall.
Historic Environment Scotland are partnering up with digital and visual experts, Andy McGregor, Double Take Projections and War Productions Limited to put on this year’s show. The annual event has become one of the fixtures in the winter calendar.
Alastair Young, producer of Castle of Light, said: “As we enter our sixth year, we’re bringing an even bolder and brighter adventure to Edinburgh Castle. Castle of Light: Fire and Ice draws on the fire that forged this ancient rock and the ice that shaped its form to tell a captivating story of resilience, transformation and wonder. Whether it’s your first visit or you’ve joined us before, this year’s show promises to be like nothing you’ve ever seen.”
Alongside the awe-inspiring tapestry of storytelling projections, visitors can enjoy a variety of drinks and small plates, toast marshmallows by the fire pit, and indulge in a mouth-watering selection of street food on the esplanade.
Kit Reid, Head of Experience at HES, which runs Edinburgh Castle, said: “Castle of Light has become a much-loved winter tradition, attracting thousands of visitors every year. Now in its sixth year, we’re getting ready to present a completely new show that highlights both the fiery origins and the icy resilience of Scotland’s most iconic landmark.
“Castle of Light: Fire and Ice will transform Edinburgh Castle into an unforgettable festive experience, creating magical memories for families, friends and visitors of all ages as they’re invited in to see Edinburgh Castle in a whole new light and take in the breathtaking views of the Edinburgh skyline after dark in all its festive splendour.”
Ticketed entry slots will run every 15 minutes between 4.30pm and 7.30pm each evening, with last entry between 7.30pm and 7.45pm. The event closes at 9pm.
A special reduced-capacity ‘quiet night’ will also take place on Sunday 7 December, offering a calmer experience with softer lighting, lower sound levels and no smoke effects.
Adult early bird tickets cost £21.60 and are available until Tuesday 30 September (using the promo code: COLCM25 at checkout). Concession rates, family tickets and discounts for Historic Scotland members are also available.
For more information and to get your tickets, visitwww.CastleofLight.com. Advance booking required.
- Castle of Light will run every Friday and Saturday, starting on Friday 21 November 2025 until Sunday 4 January 2026, (excluding Friday 26 December).
- The event will also run on Sunday 7 December, Sunday 14 December, Sunday 21, Monday 22 and Tuesday 23 December, Sunday 28, Monday 29 and Tuesday 30 December, and Sunday 4 January.
- A quiet night will take place on Sunday 7 December.
- Time: Timed entry from 4.30pm to 7.30pm, last entry between 7.30pm and 7.45pm. The event closes at 9pm. It is suggested that visitors allow around 60 minutes to fully experience the show but they can take as much or as little time as they like.
- Cost:
- Early bird tickets – Early bird tickets are available until Tuesday 30 September (using the promo code: COLCM25 at checkout). Adult (16-64yrs) £21.60; Concessions (65yrs+)
- £17.10; Child (7-15yrs – must be accompanied by an adult aged 16+) £13.50. Family tickets and HS Member discounts are also available.
- Standard tickets – Adult (16-64yrs) £24; Concessions (65yrs+) £19; Child (7-15yrs – must be accompanied by an adult aged 16+) £15. Family tickets and HS Member discounts are also available.
- Tickets are available at www.CastleofLight.scot
